Speed limits should remain

The editorial on the Caledon Citizen July 4 ('Political' speed laws are a big part of the problem) clearly illustrates the main reason for the large number of traffic accidents in the Town of Caledon.

By referring to our country roads as "rural highways" the writer reveals his lack of understanding of driving in a rural setting. I suspect he is not alone. Most commuters travelling through our community are probably former city dwellers who have experienced only two types only two types of driving: stop and go, or 140 km/h on a 400 series highway.

A thin layer of asphalt on a narrow country road does not make a highway. Hazards such as hills, valleys, sharp turns, hidden driveways, deep ditches, joggers, cyclists, farm machinery, school buses and four-way stops make these roads much more challenging than driving half asleep on the 400 on cruise control.

Two years ago, our stretch of "rural highway" known as Mount Hope Road, was in such bad shape from too much heavy traffic that drivers either abandoned it or actually drove slower. Until it was patched up, it was safer for joggers, cyclists and sensible driver, but if speed limits are raised to "provincial" highway levels, the accidents will increase.

Arthur Downey

Caledon